Physiotherapy And Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Physiotherapy And Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial Band Syndrome is a common knee condition where pain is present on the outer part of the knee, caused by the iliotibial band (long band connective tissue) rubbing against the femoral epicondyle (thigh bone). This results in local tissue and iliotibial band inflammation and damage. 

Iliotibial Band Syndrome condition is common among athletes, marathon runners and cyclists. 

Causes

Below are some of the most common causes of Iliotibial Band Syndrome:

  • Overuse, repetitive knee movements in weight bearing such as excessive running, walking
  • Sudden change in training schedule, surface, frequency, duration, intensity, volume
  • Excessive training frequencies, intensities, volumes and durations
  • Inappropriate footwear
  • Inadequate warm up and cool down
  • Inadequate rehabilitation from previous injury
  • Poor technique
  • Muscle imbalance i.e. muscle tightness, weakness

Aggravating factors

There are some factors that can aggravate Iliotibial Band Syndrome. These are:

  • Long distance running
  • Downhill running
  • Ascending and descending stairs
  • Walking
  • Jumping
  • Squatting

Symptoms

If you are suffering from Iliotibial Band Syndrome, you may experience the following: 

  • Burning or sharp pain around the outer part of the knee
  • Swelling on the outer part of the knee
  • Pain with weightbearing activities that require repetitive knee movements i.e. long-distance running, descending stairs
  • Pain may be present in the mornings and following activities
  • Knee stiffness
  • Limp 

Assessment

Your physiotherapist will provide a correct diagnosis of your condition based on your clinical examination, symptom behaviour and history.  

Treatment of Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Physiotherapy should be considered as the first line of treatment. The initial focus will be to reduce both the inflammation and pain in the knee with a range of physiotherapy techniques tailored to each individual need. Once inflammation and pain subside, other factors (including muscle imbalance, footwear, joint stiffness, agility and balance) will then be addressed. An individualised management plan will be prescribed based on each individual need. 

Don’t let the pain get any worse – if you are suffering from Iliotibial Band Syndrome, contact us at Edgewater Physiotherapy. Our Prahan clinic is open and able to assist you. Please book a consult with our professional physiotherapist today.